Hangable apparatus and systems and methods therefor

CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application claiming priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. application Ser. No. 17/195,464, filed Mar. 8, 2021, which is a continuation application claiming priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. application Ser. No. 16/588,771, filed Sep. 30, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part application claiming priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 120 from U.S. application Ser. No. 16/045,391, filed Jul. 25, 2018, each of which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to hangable devices, and more particularly to an items comprising a hanger that hangs from a rail or track.

Background Art

Hanging items are popular in homes and businesses. Hanging items include curtains, drapes, plants, art, and so forth. Hanging items typically include a hanger, a mount, and something suspended from the hanger. Using a plant as one example, the hanger may comprise a metal hook, with the plant suspended beneath the hook. A user may couple the hook to a loop, perhaps mounted on the ceiling, to hang the plant.

While there are a variety of types of hangers and types of hanging items, curtains provide special challenges for designers. This is especially true in medical or hospital environments. It is frequently the case that medical service providers employ curtains to separate patients, conceal medical procedures from view, and to segregate areas of operating rooms and care centers. It is advantageous to launder such curtains to prevent the curtains from acting as a vector to transfer pathogens and bacteria from one patient to the next. Even where the curtains are disposable, they still need to be changed to prevent transfer of pathogens and bacteria from one patient to the next. However, prior art curtains are difficult to take down and clean due to the fact that they are frequently attached to carriers that slide within a metal track. The dismounting process is costly and labor intensive.

It would be advantageous to have an improved hangable apparatus, suitable for use in curtain and drape systems, which is easier and quieter to dismount.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>1</b></figref> illustrates a perspective view of one explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>2</b></figref> illustrates a front elevation view of one explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>3</b></figref> illustrates a rear elevation view of one explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref> illustrates a side elevation view of one explanatory track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b></figref> illustrates one explanatory key and hook tip in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>6</b></figref> illustrates one explanatory base member in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref> illustrates one explanatory track hanger prior to assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b></figref> illustrates a partially assembled track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref> illustrates an assembled track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b></figref> illustrates a partially assembled track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>11</b></figref> illustrates a perspective view of another explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b></figref> illustrates another assembled track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b></figref> illustrates another assembled track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>14</b></figref> illustrates yet another assembled track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>15</b></figref> illustrates a perspective view of another explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>16</b></figref> illustrates another perspective view of another explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure, illustrating another explanatory key and hook tip in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>17</b></figref> illustrates a front elevation view of another explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>18</b></figref> illustrates a rear elevation view of another explanatory track hanger system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>19</b></figref> illustrates a side elevation view of another explanatory track hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref> illustrates another explanatory base member in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>21</b></figref> illustrates yet another explanatory base member in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>22</b></figref> illustrates one or more method steps for assembling another explanatory track hanger configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>23</b></figref> illustrated one explanatory accessory suitable for use with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>24</b></figref> illustrates another explanatory accessory suitable for use with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>25</b></figref> illustrates yet another explanatory accessory suitable for use with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>26</b></figref> illustrates one explanatory system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>27</b></figref> illustrates a first perspective view of one explanatory hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>28</b></figref> illustrates another perspective view of one explanatory hanger in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>29</b></figref> illustrates various embodiments of the disclosure.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail. Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. Apparatus components and method steps have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims, the following terms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “substantially” and “about” are used to refer to dimensions, orientations, or alignments inclusive of manufacturing tolerances. Thus, a “substantially orthogonal” angle with a manufacturing tolerance of plus or minus two degrees would include all angles between 88 and 92, inclusive. Also, reference designators shown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure other than the one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (<b>10</b>) while discussing figure A would refer to an element, <b>10</b>, shown in figure other than figure A.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a track hanger system for an item. In one embodiment, the item to be hung is a curtain. Illustrating by example, for a hospital setting where infection control is an area of high concern, track hangers configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure can be used to hang curtains between patients, procedures, areas, and so forth. Track hangers configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure are easier to mount and dismount than are prior art designs. Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure advantageously make it easier for health care practitioners to change and launder the curtains to ensure that bacteria and other pathogens are not readily transferred from patient to patient or from patient to health care practitioner.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that it is very difficult to change prior art curtain systems designed for health care environments. The hangers are difficult to dismount. Additionally, a technician, and sometimes multiple people, equipped with ladders or specialized equipment are required to dismount the curtains, making changing or laundering the curtains a labor-intensive and costly endeavor. For this reason, curtains are rarely changed or washed. In some situations, it is considered fortunate if the curtains were changed three times a year.

Advantageously, embodiments of the disclosure offer an improved track hanger that is easier to mount to a tiled ceiling, e.g., a dropped ceiling that includes a suspension grid of metal channels or rails, which are suspended to support ceiling panels, as are found in most hospitals, doctor's offices, and other health care offices. In one or more embodiments, the track hanger includes a hook, an extension, a head, a base member, and a key. Each component can be modular and detachable from the other. For example, the key can be detachable from the hook. Similarly, the base member can be detachable from the extension, and so forth.

In one or more embodiments, the key includes a first major surface and a second major surface. One or both of the first major surface or the second major surface can define one or more barbs that facilitate a one-way insertion of the key into the track. This makes the track hangers and track extremely quick to mount.

Once mounted, curtains can be hung from the track. These curtains, such as those described in commonly assigned U.S. Ser. No. 15/651,774, filed Jul. 17, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference, are quick and simple to mount and dismount. They require only a single person—working for a few minutes—to change the curtains. Accordingly, embodiments of the disclosure allow for more frequent changing and laundering of curtains, thereby promoting health and safety when used in hospitals or other health care settings.

In addition to potentially serving as vectors for bacteria and other pathogens, prior art curtain hanging systems have other problems as well. Most hangers require special mounting hardware and/or tools to mount to a wall or ceiling. Additionally, the mounting hardware leaves scars in the wall or ceiling should the hanger ever be taken down. Embodiments of the disclosure provide a solution to each of these problems by providing a base member that includes a first base member portion and a second base member portion. The first base member portion and the second base member portion are separable from each other along a medial major axis of the base member.

In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion comprises a first half rail clamp. Similarly, the second base member portion can include a second half rail clamp. In one or more embodiments, the first half rail clamp defines a first half head-receiving aperture, while the second half rail clamp defines a second half head-receiving aperture. In one or more embodiments, coupling the first base member portion to the second base member portion causes the first half head-receiving aperture to abut the second half head-receiving aperture, thereby resulting in the base member defining a head-receiving aperture into which the head of the hanger may situate.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger is then coupled to the base member. In one or more embodiments, the hanger includes a head, which is coupled to the extension. In one or more embodiments, the extension is situated between the head and the hook. In one or more embodiments, the head of the hanger is locked into the head-receiving aperture of the base member such that it is able to “clamp” onto a rail passing through the base member.

In one or more embodiments, separating the first base member portion from the second base member portion along the medial major axis therefore separates the first half rail clamp from the second half rail clamp and splits the head-receiving aperture. When used with a drop ceiling having a suspension grid of rails, one can simply place the first rail half clamp to the left of a rail and the second rail half clamp to the right of the rail, or vice versa.

The first base member portion can then be pressed against the second base member portion along the medial major axis, which causes the rail of the suspension grid to be caught between the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp. The head of the hanger can then be situated within the head-receiving aperture. A fastener can then be attached to the base member to both retain the first base member portion against the second base member portion and to clamp the head of the hanger against the rail. The fastener can be coupled and uncoupled as desired so as to allow quick and easy coupling of the base member and head of the hanger to the rails of the suspension grid.

In one or more embodiments, the coupler engages one or more threads disposed on the exterior surface of a head receiver extending distally from the base member to retain the first base member portion against the second base member portion and the head of the hanger against the rail through the head-receiving aperture. As will be shown in more detail below, the coupler can also be used to bias and claim the head, which is attached to the extension and hook, against a major face of the rail within an interior socket supporting the threads. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the rail is clamped on three sides—two by the first base member portion and the second base member portion, and a third by the head of the hanger against the major surface of the rail. Advantageously, a track hanger for an item comprises a uniquely configured base member that facilitates simple mounting and dismounting of the track hanger to a rail of a conventional suspension grid of a drop ceiling while also biasing the head of a hanger against the same rail for additional coupling power.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>4</b></figref>, illustrated therein is one explanatory embodiment of a track hanger <b>100</b> configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the track hanger <b>100</b> is to suspend a track from a surface such as a wall or ceiling.

The track hanger <b>100</b>, in one or more embodiments, includes a hanger <b>101</b>, a base member <b>102</b>, and a key <b>403</b>. In one or more embodiments, each of the hanger <b>101</b>, the base member <b>102</b>, and the key <b>403</b> are separable from each other. For example, in one embodiment the hanger <b>101</b> can be detached from the base member <b>102</b>. Similarly, the key <b>403</b> can be detached from the hanger <b>101</b>. It should be noted that the track hanger <b>100</b> can be manufactured in different sizes and shapes so as to be compatible with, and fit appropriately, differently sized suspension grids of drop ceilings.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger <b>101</b> comprises a hook <b>103</b> and an extension <b>104</b>. In one or more embodiments, the key <b>403</b> attaches to a distal end <b>105</b> of the hook <b>103</b>. Accordingly, where the key <b>403</b> is detachable from the hanger <b>101</b>, the attachment location to attach or detach the key <b>403</b> from the hook <b>103</b> is the distal end <b>105</b>. Thus, in one or more embodiments the key <b>403</b> is detachable from the hook <b>103</b>.

In one embodiment, the hanger <b>101</b> is configured as a single, unitary element. Said differently, in one embodiment the hook <b>103</b> and the extension <b>104</b> are manufactured as a single, integral unit. As will be described in more detail below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref>, the hanger <b>101</b> can also include a head. Where included, the hook <b>103</b>, the extension <b>104</b>, and the head can be manufactured as a single, integral unit.

Illustrating by example, in one embodiment the hook <b>103</b>, the extension <b>104</b>, and the head are manufactured from a thermoplastic material by way of an injection molding process. The hook <b>103</b>, the extension <b>104</b>, and the head can be manufactured from nylon, styrene, ABS, polycarbonate, or polycarbonate-ABS, PMMA, PVC, or other polyamide-based thermoplastics in one embodiment. Other materials suitable for manufacturing the hook <b>103</b>, the extension <b>104</b>, and the head will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. While the base member <b>102</b> and the key <b>403</b> are separable from the hanger <b>101</b>, in one or more embodiments the base member <b>102</b> and the key <b>403</b> can be manufactured from the same material as is the hanger <b>101</b>. In other embodiments, the hanger <b>101</b> is manufactured from materials different from the base member <b>102</b> and/or key <b>403</b>. The base member <b>102</b>, hanger <b>101</b>, and key <b>403</b> can each be manufactured from different materials as well.

As best seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref>, in one embodiment the key <b>403</b> includes a first major surface <b>401</b> and a second major surface <b>402</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the first major surface <b>401</b> defines one or more barbs <b>404</b>. Each barb comprises a hemi-triangular protrusion with the base of each hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed beneath the side of the hemi-triangular protrusion. In this illustrative embodiment, the second major surface <b>402</b> is substantially planar.

In one or more embodiments, a track <b>106</b> attaches to the key <b>403</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the track <b>106</b> has a first flat side <b>407</b> and a second flat side <b>408</b>. An arch <b>409</b> spans between ends of the first flat side <b>407</b> and the second flat side <b>408</b> in this embodiment.

In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is flexible so that it can be shaped into different contours when attached to a track hanger <b>100</b>. For example, in one embodiment the track <b>106</b> is manufactured from plastic. One suitable plastic for the track <b>106</b> is polypropylene, although other flexible materials, such as polyethylene, will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Additionally, other material such as ABS plastic can be used in other embodiments. In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is manufactured from an extrusion process.

In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is a continuous piece. In other embodiments, segments of different tracks can be aligned end-to-end to form a composite track. In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is malleable. While the cross section of the track <b>106</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref> is generally flat along each of the first flat side <b>407</b> and the second flat side <b>408</b>, it should be noted that the cross section could take other shapes as well, such as ovular or flat.

In one embodiment the track <b>106</b> is configured so as to be easily cleanable. In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is manufactured so as to be light beige in color. In another embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is manufactured so as to be white in color. Other colors for the track <b>106</b> will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> is cut to predefined lengths, such as twenty-foot lengths. In one or more embodiments, the ends of the track <b>106</b> can be contoured for smooth interconnection to adjacent track segments.

In one embodiment, the track <b>106</b> comprises a coating <b>107</b>. For example, in one embodiment the track <b>106</b> is coated with a silicon-based coating to allow curtains or other hangers to more smoothly slide along the track <b>106</b>. It should be noted that one primary advantage offered by embodiments of the disclosure is that hanging systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure are very, very quiet when in operation. For example, where the track <b>106</b> is manufactured from polyethylene and coated with silicon, and a curtain having a hanger such as those described in commonly assigned U.S. Ser. No. 15/651,774, filed Jul. 17, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference, which is made from a woven polyester mesh, moving the hanger along the track <b>106</b> is nearly a silent procedure. This is advantageous in hospitals and other medical environments where noise is problematic. Prior art hanging systems, which primarily include metal, are loud and intrusive. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the track <b>106</b>, the hanger, and any item attached thereto is made without any metal. This greatly reduces—if not eliminates—noise when the hangers are moved on the track <b>106</b>.

A second advantage of not including metal in either the track <b>106</b> or items hanging therefrom is that components of systems configured in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure can be extremely light in weight. This enables the track <b>106</b> to easily be mounted on the key <b>403</b>. The process can be accomplished by anyone, regardless of size or strength.

The inclusion of the first flat side <b>407</b>, the second flat side <b>408</b>, and the arch <b>409</b> define a peninsular indentation <b>410</b> into which the key <b>403</b> may be inserted. In this illustrative embodiment, the track <b>106</b> comprises one or more complementary barbs <b>405</b>. Each of the one or more complementary barbs <b>405</b> is complementary in shape to the one or more barbs <b>404</b> of the key <b>403</b>. Here, each complementary barb comprises an inverted hemi-triangular protrusion with a base of each inverted hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed above a side of the inverted hemi-triangular protrusion.

Using this configuration, the one or more barbs <b>404</b> of the key <b>403</b> facilitate one-way penetration of the key <b>403</b> into the track <b>106</b>. In one or more embodiments, the track <b>106</b> is manufactured from a pliable material, such as a thermoplastic. When the key <b>403</b> is inserted into the peninsular indentation <b>410</b>, the first flat side <b>407</b> of the track <b>106</b> flexes so that the one or more complementary barbs <b>405</b> of the track <b>106</b> pass over the one or more barbs <b>404</b> of the key <b>403</b>. Once the key <b>403</b> is fully inserted into the peninsular indentation <b>410</b> of the track <b>106</b>, first flat side <b>407</b> of the track <b>106</b> flex back toward the key <b>403</b>, thereby causing the one or more complementary barbs <b>405</b> to engage the one or more barbs <b>404</b> of the key <b>403</b>. This results in the key <b>403</b> being frictionally retained within the track <b>106</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the second flat side <b>408</b> of the track <b>106</b> terminates at an end opposite the arch <b>409</b> in an L-shaped latch <b>411</b>. In one or more embodiments, the second major surface <b>402</b> of the key includes a complementary L-shaped indention <b>412</b> into which the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch <b>411</b> seats when the key <b>403</b> is fully inserted into the track <b>106</b>.

In operation, when the key <b>403</b> is inserted into the peninsular indentation <b>410</b>, the second flat side <b>408</b> of the track <b>106</b> flexes so the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch <b>411</b> of the track <b>106</b> can pass over the second flat side <b>408</b> of the key <b>403</b>. Once the key <b>403</b> is fully inserted into the peninsular indentation <b>410</b> of the track <b>106</b>, second flat side <b>408</b> of the track <b>106</b> flexes back toward the key <b>403</b>, thereby causing the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch <b>411</b> to seat within the complementary L-shaped indention <b>412</b> of the key <b>403</b>. This assists in retaining the key <b>403</b> within the track <b>106</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the base member <b>102</b> comprises a first base member portion <b>108</b> and a second base member portion <b>109</b>. In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> are separable along a medial major axis <b>110</b>. In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>4</b></figref>, the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> have been placed together such that their inner surfaces abut along the medial major axis <b>110</b>. A coupler <b>111</b>, which in this embodiment is a plastic hex nut, couples the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> together to retain the inner surfaces abutting at the medial major axis <b>110</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>108</b> defines a first half rail clamp <b>112</b>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>109</b> defines a second half rail clamp <b>113</b>. Each of the first half rail clamp <b>112</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>113</b> includes a vertical member extending distally from the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b>, respectively, and a horizontal member extending distally from its respective vertical member only a portion of the width of the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b>. This leaves a gap between each horizontal member, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>2</b>-<b>3</b></figref>.

Separating the first base member portion <b>108</b> from the second base member portion <b>109</b> along the medial major axis <b>110</b> therefore separates the first half rail clamp <b>112</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>113</b>. When used with a drop ceiling having a suspension grid of rails, one can simply place the first half rail clamp <b>112</b> to the left of a rail and the second half rail clamp <b>113</b> to the right of the rail, or vice versa. The first base member portion <b>108</b> can then be pressed against the second base member portion <b>109</b> along the medial major axis <b>110</b>. This causes the rail of the suspension grid to be caught between the first half rail clamp <b>112</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>113</b>.

When the coupler <b>111</b> is then be attached to the base member <b>102</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>108</b> against the second base member portion <b>109</b>, this causes the first half rail clamp <b>112</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>113</b> to couple the track hanger <b>100</b> to the rail of the suspension grid. In one or more embodiments, as will be described below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>6</b>-<b>9</b></figref>, the coupler <b>111</b> engages one or more threads disposed on the exterior surface of a head receiver extending distally from the base member <b>102</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>108</b> against the second base member portion <b>109</b>. As will be also shown in more detail below in these figures, the coupler <b>111</b> can also be used to retain a head, which is attached to the extension <b>104</b> and hook <b>103</b>, within an interior socket supporting the threads. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the track hanger <b>100</b> comprises a uniquely configured base member <b>102</b> that facilitates simple mounting and dismounting of the track hanger <b>100</b> to a track of a conventional suspension grid of a drop ceiling.

In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>4</b></figref>, hanger <b>101</b> of the track hanger <b>100</b> includes one or more bends <b>114</b>,<b>115</b>,<b>116</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the hanger <b>101</b> includes three bends <b>114</b>,<b>115</b>,<b>116</b>. Bend <b>114</b> and bend <b>115</b> are obtuse, while bend <b>116</b> is substantially orthogonal.

As noted above, in one or more embodiments each of the hanger <b>101</b>, the base member <b>102</b>, and the key <b>403</b> are separable from each other. For example, in one embodiment the hanger <b>101</b> can be detached from the base member <b>102</b>. Similarly, the key <b>403</b> can be detached from the hanger <b>101</b>. Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>5</b></figref>, illustrated therein is the key <b>403</b> detached from the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the key <b>403</b> is selectively attachable to the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>. To attach the key <b>403</b> to the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>, the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> opposite the extension (<b>104</b>) of the hanger <b>101</b> is inserted into an aperture <b>502</b> defined within a connector <b>504</b> of the key. In one or more embodiments, the aperture <b>502</b> is configured to frictionally retain the key <b>403</b> to the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>. However, in other embodiments, a latch, snap, one-way latch, or other mating feature can be incorporated into either the aperture <b>502</b> or the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> to frictionally retain the key <b>403</b> to the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>.

In this illustrative embodiment, the aperture <b>502</b> and the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> are geometrically configured to prevent rotation of the key <b>403</b> about the end <b>501</b> of the hook. To wit, here the aperture <b>502</b> defines a flat side <b>505</b> and two arched protrusions <b>506</b>,<b>507</b>. The end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> have a flat side <b>509</b> and two arched indentations <b>508</b> that are complementary in shape to the two arched protrusions <b>506</b>,<b>507</b>. When the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> opposite the extension (<b>104</b>) of the hanger <b>101</b> is inserted into an aperture <b>502</b> defined within a connector <b>504</b> of the key <b>403</b>, engagement of the two arched protrusions <b>506</b>,<b>507</b> with the two arched indentations <b>508</b>, opposite engagement of the flat side <b>505</b> of the aperture <b>502</b> with the flat side <b>505</b> of the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b> prevents rotation of the key <b>403</b> about the end <b>501</b> of the hook <b>103</b>.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>6</b></figref>, illustrated therein are the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> after having been separated along the medial major axis <b>110</b>. This separation exposes the inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> of the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b>, respectively.

In one or more embodiments, the inner surface <b>601</b> of the first base member portion <b>108</b> comprises one or more bosses <b>603</b>,<b>604</b>. Here, two bosses <b>603</b>,<b>604</b> are shown. However, more or fewer bosses can be included in other embodiments.

In this illustrative embodiment, the inner surface <b>602</b> of the second base member portion <b>109</b> comprises one or more boss receivers <b>605</b>,<b>606</b>. Here, two boss receivers <b>605</b>,<b>606</b> are shown. However, more or fewer boss receivers can be included in other embodiments. In one or more embodiments, the boss receivers <b>605</b>,<b>606</b> comprise apertures that extend into the inner surface <b>602</b> of the second base member portion <b>109</b>, and which have shapes that are complementary to the one or more bosses <b>603</b>,<b>604</b> of the inner surface <b>601</b> of the first base member portion <b>108</b>. The one or more boss receivers <b>605</b> can optionally include wider mouths <b>607</b>,<b>608</b> at their openings to facilitate easier insertion of the one or more bosses <b>603</b>,<b>604</b> into the one or more boss receivers <b>605</b>,<b>606</b> when the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>110</b>.

In one or more embodiments, when the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>110</b>, the one or more bosses <b>603</b>,<b>604</b> insert into the one or more boss receivers <b>605</b>,<b>606</b>. This prevents the inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> of the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> from sliding about.

In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>6</b></figref>, the base member <b>102</b> includes a head receiver. As will be described in more detail below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref>, the hanger (<b>101</b>) can also include a head. In this illustrative embodiment, the first base member portion <b>108</b> has a first half head receiver <b>609</b> extending distally from a side of the first base member portion <b>108</b> disposed opposite the first half rail clamp <b>112</b>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>109</b> has a second half head receiver <b>610</b> extending distally from a side of the second base member portion <b>109</b> disposed opposite the second half rail clamp <b>113</b>.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> are both hemi-cylindrical. When the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>110</b>, the edges of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> also abut to define a cylindrical head receiver. While a cylinder is one suitable shape for a head receiver formed by abutment of the edges of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, other shapes can be used as well. In other embodiments, the head receiver is rectangular, triangular, polygonal, or free form shapes. Still other shapes for the head receiver will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the inner surfaces <b>611</b>,<b>612</b> of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> define an interior socket to receive the head of a hanger (<b>101</b>) configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the exterior surfaces <b>613</b>,<b>614</b> of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> define one or more threads <b>615</b>,<b>616</b>. When the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>601</b>,<b>602</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>110</b>, the edges of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> also abut to define a cylindrical head receiver having a an interior socket defined by the inner surfaces <b>611</b>,<b>612</b> of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, and having threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>613</b>,<b>614</b> of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. The coupler (<b>111</b>) can then be threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>613</b>,<b>614</b> of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> to couple the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> together.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref>, illustrated therein is the hanger <b>101</b> separated from the base member <b>102</b>. As can be seen in this separated state, in one or more embodiments the hanger <b>101</b> includes a head <b>701</b>, which is coupled to the extension <b>104</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the extension <b>104</b> is situated between the head <b>701</b> and the hook <b>103</b>.

In this illustrative embodiment, the head <b>701</b> is cylindrical. While a cylinder is one suitable shape for the head <b>701</b>, other shapes can be used as well. In other embodiments, the head <b>701</b> is rectangular, triangular, polygonal, or free form shapes. Still other shapes for the head <b>701</b> will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the head <b>701</b> and the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> are complementary in shape. In this illustrative embodiment, the head <b>701</b> and the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, when abutting, are cylindrical.

The head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, or more particularly, the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, is configured to receive the head <b>701</b> when the head <b>701</b> is inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the head <b>701</b> can include one or more teeth <b>702</b>. Where included, the one or more teeth <b>702</b> can engage an interior surface of the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, thereby preventing rotation of the head <b>701</b> when inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. In one or more embodiments, the interior surface of the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> can include complementary teeth to engage the one or more teeth <b>702</b> of the head <b>701</b>, thereby further preventing rotation of the head <b>701</b> when inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. Where rotation of the head <b>701</b> within head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> is desired, the head <b>701</b> and the interior surface of the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> can be smooth so as to facilitate movement. Lubricants can be placed between the head <b>701</b> and the interior surface of the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> as well.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>7</b></figref>, prior to insertion of the head <b>701</b> into the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, the coupler <b>111</b> is placed about the hanger <b>101</b>. The head <b>701</b> is then inserted into the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. This is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b></figref>.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>8</b></figref>, once the head (<b>701</b>) is then inserted into the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. The coupler <b>111</b>, which includes interior threads, can then engage the one or more threads <b>801</b> disposed along the exterior surface of the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>108</b> and the second base member portion <b>109</b> together. This engagement of the coupler <b>111</b> to the one or more threads <b>801</b> disposed along the exterior surface of the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> also retains the head (<b>701</b>) of the hanger <b>101</b> within the interior socket defined by the inner surfaces (<b>611</b>,<b>612</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>. Said differently, in one or more embodiments, when the head (<b>701</b>) is inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>, the coupler <b>111</b> is operable to engage the exterior surface of the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b> to retain the head (<b>701</b>) within the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>609</b> and the second half head receiver <b>610</b>.

The completed hanger assembly <b>900</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>9</b></figref>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b></figref>, the track <b>106</b> can then be attached to the key <b>403</b> as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref>, thereby yielding the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>3</b></figref>.

Turning now <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>11</b></figref>, illustrated therein is another explanatory embodiment of a track hanger <b>1100</b> configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the track hanger <b>1100</b> is to suspend a track from a surface such as a wall or ceiling.

The track hanger <b>1100</b>, in one or more embodiments, includes a hanger <b>1101</b>, a base member <b>1102</b>, and a key <b>1143</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the hanger <b>1101</b> has a circular cross section <b>1181</b>. However, the hanger <b>1101</b> can have other cross sections as well. For example, in another embodiment the hanger <b>1101</b> has a cross section <b>1180</b> configured as a cross or an “X.” In still another embodiment, the hanger <b>1101</b> has a cross section <b>1182</b> that is a square or diamond. Other cross sections, such as ovals, free form shapes, polygons, and the like, will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, each of the hanger <b>1101</b>, the base member <b>1102</b>, and the key <b>1143</b> are separable from each other. For example, in one embodiment the hanger <b>1101</b> can be detached from the base member <b>1102</b>. Similarly, the key <b>1143</b> can be detached from the hanger <b>1101</b>. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the hanger <b>1101</b>, base member <b>1102</b>, or the key <b>1143</b> can be integrated with, or perdurably connected to, another of the hanger <b>1101</b>, base member <b>1102</b>, or the key <b>1143</b>. Illustrating by example, in one or more embodiments the base member <b>1102</b> and the hanger <b>1101</b> can be constructed as a single, integrated, unitary component. In one embodiment, base member <b>1102</b> and hanger <b>1101</b> are constructed as a single, integrated, unitary component. Similarly, base member <b>1150</b> and hanger <b>1101</b> can be constructed as a single, integrated, unitary component. Moreover, base member <b>1160</b> and hanger <b>1101</b> can be constructed as a single, integrated, unitary component, and so forth.

In this illustration, three different and interchangeable base members <b>1102</b>,<b>1150</b>,<b>1160</b> are shown. The first base member <b>1102</b> is a track clip base member, while the second base member <b>1150</b> is a screw adaptor base member. The third base member <b>1160</b> is a track insertion base member. The first base member <b>1102</b> is similar to that shown above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>4</b></figref>.

The second base member <b>1150</b> includes a quadrilateral attachment support <b>1151</b> that defines a recess <b>1152</b> along its upper surface. Two apertures <b>1153</b>,<b>1154</b>, through which screws can be inserted from the lower surface of the quadrilateral attachment support <b>1151</b>, through the apertures <b>1153</b>,<b>1154</b>, and out the upper surface of the quadrilateral attachment support <b>1151</b> to attach the second base member <b>1150</b> to a ceiling. Each aperture <b>1153</b>,<b>1154</b> is surrounded by a boss <b>1155</b>,<b>1156</b> in the recess <b>1152</b>. The recess <b>1152</b> is bounded by a perimeter wall as shown in this illustrative embodiment. A head receiver <b>1158</b> includes one or more threads <b>1159</b> as previously described. A neck <b>1157</b>, which has a diameter that is smaller than that of the head receiver <b>1158</b>, and is also narrower than a minor dimension of the quadrilateral of the quadrilateral attachment support <b>1151</b>, separates the quadrilateral attachment support <b>1151</b> and the head receiver <b>1158</b>.

The third base member <b>1160</b> includes a rectangular track insertion head <b>1161</b> that can be inserted into a track with the major axis of the rectangular track insertion head <b>1161</b> parallel to the major axis of the track. A head receiver <b>1163</b> includes one or more threads <b>1164</b> as previously described. A neck <b>1162</b>, which has a diameter that is smaller than that of the head receiver <b>1163</b>, and is also narrower than a minor dimension of the rectangular track insertion head <b>1161</b>, separates the rectangular track insertion head <b>1161</b> and the head receiver <b>1163</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger <b>1101</b> comprises a hook <b>1103</b> and an extension <b>1104</b>. In one or more embodiments, the key <b>1143</b> attaches to a distal end <b>1105</b> of the hook <b>1103</b>. Accordingly, where the key <b>1143</b> is detachable from the hanger <b>1101</b>, the attachment location to attach or detach the key <b>1143</b> from the hook <b>1103</b> is the distal end <b>1105</b>. Thus, in one or more embodiments the key <b>1143</b> is detachable from the hook <b>1103</b>.

In one embodiment, the distal end <b>1105</b> of the hook <b>1103</b> simply inserts into the key <b>1143</b>, with a friction fit holding the two components together. In another embodiment, a protrusion <b>1183</b> disposed along the distal end <b>1105</b> of the hook <b>1103</b> inserts into a recess <b>1184</b> configured in the key <b>1143</b> for a snap fit. Other engagements for the distal end <b>1105</b> of the hook <b>1103</b> and the key <b>1143</b> will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one embodiment, the hanger <b>1101</b> is configured as a single, unitary element. Said differently, in one embodiment the hook <b>1103</b> and the extension <b>1104</b> are manufactured as a single, integral unit. In this illustrative embodiment, the hanger <b>1101</b> also includes a head <b>1170</b>. Where included, the hook <b>1103</b>, the extension <b>1104</b>, and the head <b>1170</b> can be manufactured as a single, integral unit as previously described.

In one embodiment the key <b>1143</b> includes a first major surface <b>1144</b> and a second major surface <b>1145</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the first major surface <b>1144</b> defines one or more barbs <b>1146</b>. Each barb comprises a hemi-triangular protrusion with the base of each hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed beneath the side of the hemi-triangular protrusion. In this illustrative embodiment, the second major surface <b>1145</b> is substantially planar.

In one or more embodiments, a track <b>1106</b> attaches to the key <b>1143</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> has a first flat side <b>1147</b> and a second flat side <b>1148</b>. An arch spans between ends of the first flat side <b>1147</b> and the second flat side <b>1148</b> in this embodiment. In one embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> is flexible so that it can be shaped into different contours when attached to a track hanger <b>1100</b>.

In one embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> is a continuous piece. In other embodiments, segments of different tracks can be aligned end-to-end to form a composite track. In one embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> is malleable. While the cross section of the track <b>1106</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b></figref> is generally flat along each of the first flat side <b>1147</b> and the second flat side <b>1148</b>, it should be noted that the cross section could take other shapes as well, such as ovular or flat.

In one embodiment the track <b>1106</b> is configured so as to be easily cleanable. In one embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> is manufactured so as to be light beige in color. In one embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> is cut to predefined lengths, such as twenty-foot lengths. In one or more embodiments, the ends of the track <b>1106</b> can be contoured for smooth interconnection to adjacent track segments.

The inclusion of the first flat side <b>1147</b>, the second flat side <b>1148</b>, and the arch define a peninsular indentation into which the key <b>1143</b> may be inserted. In this illustrative embodiment, the track <b>1106</b> comprises one or more complementary barbs <b>1149</b>. Each of the one or more complementary barbs <b>1149</b> is complementary in shape to the one or more barbs <b>1146</b> of the key <b>1143</b>. Here, each complementary barb comprises an inverted hemi-triangular protrusion with a base of each inverted hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed above a side of the inverted hemi-triangular protrusion.

Using this configuration, the one or more barbs <b>1146</b> of the key <b>1143</b> facilitate one-way penetration of the key <b>1143</b> into the track <b>1106</b>. In one or more embodiments, the track <b>1106</b> is manufactured from a pliable material, such as a thermoplastic. When the key <b>1143</b> is inserted into the peninsular indentation, the first flat side <b>1147</b> of the track <b>1106</b> flexes so that the one or more complementary barbs <b>1149</b> of the track <b>1106</b> pass over the one or more barbs <b>1146</b> of the key <b>1143</b>. Once the key <b>1143</b> is fully inserted into the peninsular indentation of the track <b>1106</b>, first flat side <b>1147</b> of the track <b>1106</b> flex back toward the key <b>1143</b>, thereby causing the one or more complementary barbs <b>1149</b> to engage the one or more barbs <b>1146</b> of the key <b>1143</b>. This results in the key <b>1143</b> being frictionally retained within the track <b>1106</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the second flat side <b>1148</b> of the track <b>1106</b> terminates at an end opposite the arch in an L-shaped latch. In one or more embodiments, the second major surface <b>1145</b> of the key includes a complementary L-shaped indention into which the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch seats when the key <b>1143</b> is fully inserted into the track <b>1106</b>.

In operation, when the key <b>1143</b> is inserted into the peninsular indentation, the second flat side <b>1148</b> of the track <b>1106</b> flexes so the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch of the track <b>1106</b> can pass over the second flat side <b>1148</b> of the key <b>1143</b>. Once the key <b>1143</b> is fully inserted into the peninsular indentation of the track <b>1106</b>, second flat side <b>1148</b> of the track <b>1106</b> flexes back toward the key <b>1143</b>, thereby causing the base of the “L” of the L-shaped latch to seat within the complementary L-shaped indention of the key <b>1143</b>. This assists in retaining the key <b>1143</b> within the track <b>1106</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the base member <b>1102</b> comprises a first base member portion <b>1108</b> and a second base member portion <b>1109</b>. In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>1108</b> and the second base member portion <b>1109</b> are separable along a medial major axis <b>1110</b>. In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b></figref>, the first base member portion <b>1108</b> and the second base member portion <b>1109</b> have been placed together such that their inner surfaces abut along the medial major axis <b>1110</b>. A coupler <b>1111</b>, which in this embodiment is a plastic hex nut, couples the first base member portion <b>1108</b> and the second base member portion <b>1090</b> together to retain the inner surfaces abutting at the medial major axis <b>1110</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>1108</b> defines a first half rail clamp <b>1112</b>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>1109</b> defines a second half rail clamp <b>1113</b>. Each of the first half rail clamp <b>1112</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1113</b> includes a vertical member extending distally from the first base member portion <b>1108</b> and the second base member portion <b>1109</b>, respectively, and a horizontal member extending distally from its respective vertical member only a portion of the width of the first base member portion <b>1108</b> and the second base member portion <b>1109</b>. This leaves a gap between each horizontal member, as shown.

Separating the first base member portion <b>1108</b> from the second base member portion <b>1109</b> along the medial major axis <b>1110</b> therefore separates the first half rail clamp <b>1112</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>1113</b>. When used with a drop ceiling having a suspension grid of rails, one can simply place the first half rail clamp <b>1112</b> to the left of a rail and the second half rail clamp <b>1113</b> to the right of the rail, or vice versa. The first base member portion <b>1108</b> can then be pressed against the second base member portion <b>1109</b> along the medial major axis <b>1110</b>. This causes the rail of the suspension grid to be caught between the first half rail clamp <b>1112</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1113</b>.

When the coupler <b>1111</b> is then be attached to the base member <b>1102</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>1108</b> against the second base member portion <b>1109</b>, this causes the first half rail clamp <b>1112</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>1113</b> to couple the track hanger <b>1100</b> to the rail of the suspension grid. In one or more embodiments, the coupler <b>1111</b> engages one or more threads <b>1171</b> disposed on the exterior surface of a head receiver <b>1172</b> extending distally from the base member <b>1102</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>1108</b> against the second base member portion <b>109</b>. The coupler <b>1111</b> can also be used to retain a head <b>1170</b>, which is attached to the extension <b>1104</b> and hook <b>1103</b>, within an interior socket supporting the threads. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the track hanger <b>1100</b> comprises a uniquely configured base member <b>1102</b> that facilitates simple mounting and dismounting of the track hanger <b>1100</b> to a track of a conventional suspension grid of a drop ceiling. The hanger <b>1186</b> can optionally include an aperture <b>1185</b> in its top corner. The track hanger <b>1100</b> can be assembled as previously described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>7</b>-<b>9</b></figref>.

The completed hanger assembly <b>1200</b> using the first base member <b>1102</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>12</b></figref>. The completed hanger assembly <b>1300</b> using the second base member <b>1150</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>13</b></figref>. The completed hanger assembly <b>1400</b> using the first base member <b>1102</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>14</b></figref>.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>-<b>20</b></figref>, illustrated therein is another explanatory embodiment of a track hanger <b>1500</b> configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the track hanger <b>1500</b> is to suspend a track from a surface such as a wall or ceiling.

The track hanger <b>1500</b>, in one or more embodiments, includes a hanger <b>1501</b>, a base member <b>1502</b>, and a key <b>1503</b>. In one or more embodiments, each of the hanger <b>1501</b>, the base member <b>1502</b>, and the key <b>1503</b> are separable from each other. For example, in one embodiment the hanger <b>1501</b> can be detached from the base member <b>1502</b>. Similarly, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>16</b></figref>, the key <b>1503</b> can be detached from the hanger <b>1501</b>. It should be noted that the track hanger <b>1500</b> can be manufactured in different sizes and shapes so as to be compatible with, and fit appropriately, differently sized suspension grids of drop ceilings.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger <b>101</b> comprises a hook <b>1504</b> and an extension <b>1505</b>. In one or more embodiments, the key <b>1503</b> attaches to a distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>. Accordingly, where the key <b>1503</b> is detachable from the hanger <b>1501</b>, the attachment location to attach or detach the key <b>1503</b> from the hook <b>1504</b> is the distal end <b>1601</b>. In one or more embodiments, the key <b>1503</b> includes a distal end receiver <b>1602</b> into which the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> inserts. The distal end receiver <b>1602</b> can define one or more engagement recesses <b>1603</b> to receive one or more engagement protrusions <b>1604</b> projecting from the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> to retain the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> in one or more embodiments. In one or more embodiments the key <b>1503</b> is detachable from the hook <b>1504</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger <b>1501</b> comprises a head <b>1605</b> that is attached to the extension <b>1505</b>. In one embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>16</b></figref>, the hanger <b>1501</b> is configured as a single, unitary component. Said differently, in one embodiment the hook <b>1504</b>, the extension <b>1505</b>, and the head <b>1605</b> coupled to the extension <b>1505</b> are manufactured as a single, integral unit.

Illustrating by example, in one embodiment the hook <b>1504</b>, the extension <b>1505</b>, and the head <b>1605</b> are manufactured from a thermoplastic material by way of an injection molding process. The hook <b>1504</b>, the extension <b>1505</b>, and the head <b>1605</b> can be manufactured from nylon, styrene, ABS, polycarbonate, or polycarbonate-ABS, PMMA, PVC, or other polyamide-based thermoplastics in one embodiment. Other materials suitable for manufacturing the hook <b>1504</b>, the extension <b>1505</b>, and the head <b>1605</b> will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

While the base member <b>1502</b> and the key <b>1503</b> can be separable from the hanger <b>101</b>, in one or more embodiments the base member <b>1502</b> and the key <b>1503</b> can be manufactured from the same material as is the hanger <b>1501</b>. In other embodiments, the hanger <b>1501</b> is manufactured from materials different from the base member <b>1502</b> and/or key <b>1503</b>. The base member <b>1502</b>, hanger <b>1501</b>, and key <b>1503</b> can each be manufactured from different materials as well.

As best seen by comparing <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>17</b>-<b>18</b></figref>, in one embodiment the key <b>1503</b> includes a first major surface <b>1801</b> and a second major surface <b>1701</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the first major surface <b>1801</b> defines one or more barbs <b>1802</b>. As best shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>19</b></figref>, in one or more embodiments each barb <b>1802</b> comprises a hemi-triangular protrusion with the base of each hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed beneath the side of the hemi-triangular protrusion. In this illustrative embodiment, the second major surface <b>1701</b> is substantially planar.

In one or more embodiments, a track (<b>106</b>) attaches to the key <b>1503</b> as previously described. For example, in one or more embodiments the track (<b>106</b>) has a first flat side (<b>407</b>) and a second flat side (<b>408</b>), with an arch (<b>409</b>) spanning between ends of the first flat side (<b>407</b>) and the second flat side (<b>408</b>). The track (<b>106</b>) can be flexible so that it can be shaped into different contours when attached to a track hanger <b>1500</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the inclusion of the first flat side (<b>407</b>), the second flat side (<b>408</b>), and the arch (<b>409</b>) define a peninsular indentation (<b>410</b>) into which the key <b>1503</b> may be inserted. The track (<b>106</b>) can comprise one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>). Each of the one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>) is, in one or more embodiments, complementary in shape to the one or more barbs <b>1802</b> of the key <b>1503</b>. For example, each complementary barb can comprise an inverted hemi-triangular protrusion with a base of each inverted hemi-triangular protrusion being disposed above a side of the inverted hemi-triangular protrusion.

Using this configuration, the one or more barbs <b>1802</b> of the key <b>1503</b> facilitate one-way penetration of the key <b>1503</b> into the track (<b>106</b>). In one or more embodiments, when the key <b>1503</b> is inserted into the peninsular indentation (<b>410</b>), the first flat side (<b>407</b>) of the track (<b>106</b>) flexes so that the one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>) of the track (<b>106</b>) pass over the one or more barbs <b>1802</b> of the key <b>1503</b>. Once the key <b>1503</b> is fully inserted into the peninsular indentation (<b>410</b>) of the track (<b>106</b>), first flat side (<b>407</b>) of the track (<b>106</b>) flex back toward the key <b>1503</b>, thereby causing the one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>) to engage the one or more barbs <b>1802</b> of the key <b>1503</b>. This results in the key <b>1503</b> being frictionally retained within the track (<b>106</b>) as previously described.

In one or more embodiments, the base member <b>1502</b> comprises a first base member portion <b>1508</b> and a second base member portion <b>1509</b>. In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are separable along a medial major axis <b>2010</b>. In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>-<b>20</b></figref>, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> can be placed together such that their inner surfaces abut along the medial major axis <b>2010</b> to define the base member <b>1502</b>. A coupler <b>1511</b>, which in this embodiment is a plastic hex nut, couples the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> together to retain the inner surfaces abutting at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> defines a first half rail clamp <b>1512</b>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>1509</b> defines a second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. Each of the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> includes a vertical member extending distally from the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>, respectively, and a horizontal member extending distally from its respective vertical member only a portion of the width of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>. This leaves a gap between each horizontal member, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>, <b>16</b>, <b>19</b>, and <b>20</b></figref>.

Separating the first base member portion <b>1508</b> from the second base member portion <b>1509</b> along the medial major axis <b>2010</b> therefore separates the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. When used with a drop ceiling having a suspension grid of rails, one can simply place the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> to the left of a rail and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> to the right of the rail, or vice versa. The first base member portion <b>1508</b> can then be pressed against the second base member portion <b>1509</b> along the medial major axis <b>2010</b>. This causes the rail of the suspension grid to be caught between the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> defines a first half head-receiving aperture <b>2001</b>, while the second base member portion <b>1509</b> defines a second half head-receiving aperture <b>2002</b>. In one or more embodiments, coupling the first base member portion <b>1508</b> to the second base member portion <b>1509</b> causes the first half head-receiving aperture <b>2001</b> to abut the second half head-receiving aperture <b>2002</b>, thereby resulting in the base member <b>1502</b> defining a head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b> into which the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> may situate.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>, the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b> is defined in a planar surface of the base member formed by coupling the first base member portion <b>1508</b> to the second base member portion <b>1509</b> that is situated opposite the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. Effectively, this allows the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> to be exposed to the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. That the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is exposed to the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> means that the head <b>1605</b> can be inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> until it touches the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. When a rail is positioned or situated within the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>, as shown below in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>22</b></figref>, that the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is exposed to the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> means that the head <b>1605</b> can be inserted into the head receiver defined by the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> until it abuts or intersects with the rail.

That the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is exposed to the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> additionally means that threading the coupler <b>1511</b> onto the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> moves the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> until at least a portion of the head <b>1605</b> is exposed within the gap defined by the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. It is this exposure that provides the unique clamping function of the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> against the rail.

In one or more embodiments, the hanger <b>1501</b> is then coupled to the base member <b>1502</b>. The coupler <b>1511</b> couples the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>. Where the base member <b>1502</b> defines the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b>, with the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> situated therein, the coupler <b>1511</b> not only retains the inner surfaces abutting at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>, but also moves the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. Where a rail is situated in the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>, this causes the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> to lock into the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b> of the base member <b>1502</b> such that the head <b>1605</b> is able to “clamp” onto the rail passing through the base member <b>1502</b>.

Thus, in one or more embodiments a first base member portion <b>1508</b> comprises a first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and defines a first half head-receiving aperture <b>2001</b>. A second base member portion <b>1509</b> is coupled to the first base member portion <b>1508</b>. In one or more embodiments, the second base member portion <b>1509</b> comprises a second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> and defines a second half head-receiving aperture <b>2002</b>. A head <b>1605</b> of a hanger <b>1501</b> situates within the head receiving aperture defined by the first half head-receiving aperture <b>2001</b> and the second half head-receiving aperture <b>2002</b> abutting. In one or more embodiments, an upper surface of the head <b>1605</b> is exposed to the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> through the head-receiving aperture. A coupler <b>1511</b> couples the first base member portion <b>1508</b> to the second base member portion <b>1509</b>. In one or more embodiments, threading the coupler <b>1511</b> onto the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> moves the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> due to the head's exposure through the head-receiving aperture. Continuing to thread the coupler <b>1511</b> onto the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>, when a rail is situated between the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>, causes the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> to clamp onto the rail.

In one or more embodiments, separating the first base member portion <b>1508</b> from the second base member portion <b>1509</b> along the medial major axis <b>2010</b> then separates the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> from the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> while also separating the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b>. When used with a drop ceiling having a suspension grid of rails, one can simply place the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> to the left of a rail and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> to the right of the rail, or vice versa.

The first base member portion <b>1508</b> can then be pressed against the second base member portion <b>1509</b> along the medial major axis <b>2010</b>. In one or more embodiments, this causes the rail of the suspension grid to be caught between the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>. The head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> can then be situated within the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b>. The coupler <b>1511</b> can then be attached to the base member <b>1502</b> to both retain the first base member portion <b>1508</b> against the second base member portion <b>1509</b> and to clamp the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> against the rail. The coupler <b>1511</b> can be coupled and uncoupled as desired so as to allow quick and easy coupling of the base member <b>1502</b> and head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> to the rails of the suspension grid.

In one or more embodiments, the coupler <b>1511</b> engages one or more threads <b>1607</b> disposed on the exterior surface of the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b>, which extend distally from the base member <b>1502</b> to retain the first base member portion <b>1508</b> against the second base member portion <b>1509</b> and the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> against the rail through the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b>.

The coupler <b>1511</b>, moving toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> translates the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> toward the rail, thereby biasing and clamping the head <b>1605</b> against a major face of the rail. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the rail is clamped on three sides—two by the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>, and a third by the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> against the major surface of the rail. Advantageously, a track hanger <b>1500</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>-<b>20</b></figref> comprises a uniquely configured base member <b>1502</b> that facilitates simple mounting and dismounting of the track hanger <b>1500</b> to a rail of a conventional suspension grid of a drop ceiling while also biasing the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> against the same rail for additional coupling power. Said differently, in one or more embodiments the head <b>1605</b> is insertable into the head receiver and the coupler <b>1511</b> is operable to engage an exterior surface of the head receiver to move the head <b>1605</b> through the head receiving aperture toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

As noted above, in one or more embodiments each of the hanger <b>1501</b>, the base member <b>1502</b>, and the key <b>1503</b> are separable from each other. For example, in one embodiment the hanger <b>1501</b> can be detached from the base member <b>1502</b>. Similarly, the key <b>1503</b> can be detached from the hanger <b>1501</b>. As best shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>16</b></figref>, in one or more embodiments the key <b>1503</b> can be detached from the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the key <b>1503</b> is selectively attachable to the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>.

In one or more embodiments, to attach the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>, the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> opposite the extension <b>1505</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into a distal end receiver <b>1602</b> defined within a connector of the key <b>1503</b>. In one or more embodiments, the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> is configured to frictionally retain the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>. However, in other embodiments, a latch, snap, one-way latch, or other mating feature, such as engagement protrusion <b>1604</b>, can be incorporated into either the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> or the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> to engage an engagement recess <b>1603</b> or otherwise frictionally retain the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>103</b>.

Thus, in one or more embodiments the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> defines at least one engagement recess <b>1603</b>. In one or more embodiments, the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> comprises at least one engagement protrusion <b>1604</b> projecting from the distal end <b>1601</b>. In one or more embodiments, the at least one engagement protrusion <b>1604</b> engages the engagement recess <b>1603</b> when the distal end <b>1601</b> is inserted into the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> to retain the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end <b>1601</b>.

In this illustrative embodiment, a flat surface <b>1608</b> and the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> mates with a corresponding flat surface <b>1609</b> of the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> to prevent rotation of the key <b>1503</b> about the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b>. To wit, here the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> defines a corresponding flat surface <b>1609</b> and two arched protrusions. The distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> has a flat surface <b>1608</b> and two arched indentations that are complementary in shape to the two arched protrusions.

In one or more embodiments, when the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> opposite the extension <b>1505</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> of the key <b>1503</b>, engagement of the two arched protrusions with the two arched indentations, opposite engagement of the complementary flat surface <b>1609</b> of the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> with the flat surface <b>1608</b> of the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>1504</b> prevents rotation of the key <b>1503</b> about the distal end <b>1601</b> of the hook <b>103</b>.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>, illustrated therein are the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> after having been separated along the medial major axis <b>2010</b>. This separation exposes the inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b>, respectively.

In one or more embodiments, the inner surface <b>2003</b> of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> comprises one or more bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b>. Here, two bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b> are shown. However, more or fewer bosses can be included in other embodiments.

In this illustrative embodiment, the inner surface <b>2004</b> of the second base member portion <b>1509</b> comprises one or more boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b>. Here, two boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b> are shown. However, more or fewer boss receivers can be included in other embodiments.

In one or more embodiments, the boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b> comprise apertures that extend into the inner surface <b>2004</b> of the second base member portion <b>1509</b>, and which have shapes that are complementary to the one or more bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b> of the inner surface <b>2003</b> of the first base member portion <b>1508</b>. The one or more boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b> can optionally include wider mouths <b>2029</b>,<b>2030</b> at their openings to facilitate easier insertion of the one or more bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b> into the one or more boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b> when the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>.

In one or more embodiments, when the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>, the one or more bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b> insert into the one or more boss receivers <b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b>. This prevents the inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> from sliding about. Additional apertures <b>2011</b>,<b>2012</b>,<b>2013</b>,<b>2014</b> can be tooled into the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and second base member portion <b>1509</b>, respectively, to make each part lighter and to conserve material.

In the illustrative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>, the base member (<b>1502</b>) includes a head receiver. In this illustrative embodiment, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> has a first half head receiver <b>2015</b> extending distally from a side of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> disposed opposite the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>1509</b> has a second half head receiver <b>2016</b> extending distally from a side of the second base member portion <b>1509</b> disposed opposite the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> are both hemi-cylindrical. When the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>, the edges of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> also abut to define a cylindrical head receiver in this illustrative embodiment.

While a cylinder is one suitable shape for a head receiver formed by abutment of the edges of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b>, other shapes can be used as well. In other embodiments, the head receiver is rectangular, triangular, polygonal, or free form shapes. Still other shapes for the head receiver will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the inner surfaces <b>2017</b>,<b>2018</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> define an interior socket to receive the head (<b>1605</b>) of a hanger (<b>1501</b>) configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the exterior surfaces <b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> define one or more threads. When the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces <b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b> abut at the medial major axis <b>2010</b>, the edges of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> also abut to define a cylindrical head receiver having a an interior socket defined by the inner surfaces <b>2017</b>,<b>2018</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b>, and having threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b>. The coupler (<b>1511</b>) can then be threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> to couple the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> together.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> defines a first half head-receiving aperture <b>2001</b>. Similarly, the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> defines a second half head-receiving aperture <b>2002</b>. In one or more embodiments, when coupling the first base member portion <b>1508</b> to the second base member portion <b>1509</b> causes the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> to abut the second half head receiver <b>2016</b>, a head-receiving aperture (<b>1606</b>) is created into which the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) may situate.

When the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) is situated within the head-receiving aperture (<b>1606</b>), and the coupler (<b>1511</b>) is threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> to couple the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> together, this causes the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) to advance toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>, respectively. When a rail is situated within the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>, this advancement of the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) toward the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> causes the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) to “pinch” or “clamp” or “grab” the rail between the top of the head (<b>1605</b>) and the underside of the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

It should be noted that the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> can be configured in a variety of ways. Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>21</b></figref>, illustrated therein is an alternate first base member portion <b>2108</b> and an alternate second base member portion <b>2109</b> configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

As with the first base member portion (<b>1508</b>) and the second base member portion (<b>1509</b>) of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>, the alternate first base member portion <b>2108</b> and the alternate second base member portion <b>2109</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>21</b></figref> include one or more bosses <b>2101</b>,<b>2102</b> and one or more boss receivers <b>2103</b>,<b>2104</b>. The boss receivers <b>2103</b>,<b>2104</b> comprise apertures that extend into the inner surface of the second base member portion <b>2109</b> have shapes that are complementary to the one or more bosses <b>2101</b>,<b>2102</b> of the inner surface of the first base member portion <b>2108</b>.

The base member of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>21</b></figref> also includes a head receiver. The first base member portion <b>2108</b> has a first half head receiver <b>2105</b> extending distally from a side of the first base member portion <b>2108</b> disposed opposite the first half rail clamp <b>2107</b>, which is substantially wider than was the first half rail clamp (<b>1512</b>) of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>. Similarly, the second base member portion <b>2109</b> has a second half head receiver <b>2106</b> extending distally from a side of the second base member portion <b>2109</b> disposed opposite the second half rail clamp <b>2118</b>, which is also substantially wider than the second half rail clamp (<b>1513</b>) of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>20</b></figref>.

The inner surfaces <b>2130</b>,<b>2131</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2105</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2106</b> once again define an interior socket to receive the head (<b>1605</b>) of a hanger (<b>1501</b>). The exterior surfaces <b>2111</b>,<b>2112</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2105</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2106</b> again define one or more threads.

The first half head receiver <b>2105</b> defines a first half head-receiving aperture <b>2113</b>. Similarly, the second half head receiver <b>2106</b> defines a second half head-receiving aperture <b>2114</b>. In one or more embodiments, when coupling the first base member portion <b>2108</b> to the second base member portion <b>2109</b> causes the first half head receiver <b>2105</b> to abut the second half head receiver <b>2106</b>, a head-receiving aperture (<b>1606</b>) is created into which the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) may situate.

Threading the coupler (<b>1511</b>) onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces <b>2111</b>,<b>2112</b> of the first half head receiver <b>2105</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2106</b> then couples the first base member portion <b>2108</b> and the second base member portion <b>2109</b> together. It also causes the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) to advance toward the first half rail clamp <b>2107</b> and second half rail clamp <b>2118</b>, respectively. When a rail is situated within the first half rail clamp <b>2107</b> and second half rail clamp <b>2118</b>, this advancement of the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) toward the first half rail clamp <b>2107</b> and second half rail clamp <b>2118</b> causes the head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) to clamp the rail between the top of the head (<b>1605</b>) and the underside of the first half rail clamp <b>2107</b> and second half rail clamp <b>2118</b>.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>22</b></figref>, illustrated therein are one or more method steps in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Beginning at step <b>2201</b>, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> is positioned such that its first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> situates about a rail <b>2207</b>. At step <b>2202</b>, the second base member portion <b>1509</b> is positioned such that its second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> situates about the rail <b>2207</b>. In one or more embodiments, this results in the one or more bosses <b>2005</b>,<b>2006</b> of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> inserting into the one or more boss receivers (<b>2007</b>,<b>2008</b>) of the second base member portion <b>1509</b> when the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> are pressed together such that their inner surfaces (<b>2003</b>,<b>2004</b>) abut at the medial major axis (<b>2010</b>). It also captures the rail <b>2207</b> between the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and the second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

At step <b>2203</b>, the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into the head receiver formed by the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> extending distally from the bottom of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> extending distally from the bottom of the second base member portion <b>1509</b>. In one or more embodiments, the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into the head receiver until its upper surface abuts the rail <b>2207</b>.

At step <b>2204</b>, the coupler <b>1511</b> is threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces (<b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> to couple the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> together.

In this illustrative embodiment, the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> defines a first half head-receiving aperture (<b>2001</b>). Similarly, the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> defines a second half head-receiving aperture (<b>2002</b>). When the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is situated within the head-receiving aperture <b>1606</b> created by the first half head-receiving aperture (<b>2001</b>) and second half head-receiving aperture (<b>2002</b>) abutting, threading the coupler <b>1511</b> is threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces (<b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b>) of the first half head receiver <b>2015</b> and the second half head receiver <b>2016</b> causes the head <b>1605</b> of the hanger (<b>1501</b>) to advance toward the rail <b>2207</b>. This advancement of the head <b>1605</b> toward the rail <b>2207</b> causes the head <b>1605</b> to clamp the rail <b>2207</b> between the top of the head <b>1605</b> and the underside of the first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> and second half rail clamp <b>1513</b>.

At step <b>2205</b>, the key <b>1503</b> can be attached to the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook <b>1504</b>. In one or more embodiments, to attach the key <b>1503</b> to the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook <b>1504</b>, the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook <b>1504</b> opposite the extension <b>1505</b> of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into a distal end receiver <b>1602</b> defined within a connector of the key <b>1503</b>. In one or more embodiments, the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> is configured with an engagement recess (<b>1603</b>) that receives an engagement protrusion (<b>1604</b>) projecting from a surface of the hook <b>1504</b>. A flat surface (<b>1608</b>) and the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook (<b>1504</b>) can mate with a corresponding flat surface (<b>1609</b>) of the distal end receiver <b>1602</b> to prevent rotation of the key <b>1503</b> about the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook <b>1504</b>. As step <b>2206</b>, the track <b>106</b> can then be attached to the key <b>1503</b> as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>10</b></figref>.

Turning now <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>23</b></figref>, illustrated therein is one explanatory accessory <b>2300</b> that can be used in place of the base member of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>-<b>22</b></figref>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>23</b></figref>, the accessory <b>2300</b> is a screw adaptor base member.

In one or more embodiments, the accessory <b>2300</b> includes a circular attachment support <b>2301</b> that defines one or more recesses <b>2302</b> along its upper surface. An aperture <b>2303</b> is centrally disposed along the circular attachment support <b>2301</b>. The aperture <b>2303</b> allows a screw or other fastener to be inserted from the lower surface of the circular attachment support <b>2301</b>, through the aperture <b>2303</b>, and out the upper surface of the circular attachment support <b>2301</b> to attach the accessory <b>2300</b> to a ceiling.

In one or more embodiments, a boss surrounds the aperture <b>2303</b> in a recess. A perimeter wall bounds the recesses <b>2302</b> in this illustrative embodiment. A head receiver <b>2304</b> includes one or more threads as previously described.

Turning now <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>24</b></figref>, illustrated therein is another explanatory accessory <b>2400</b> that can be used in place of the combined base member and hanger of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>15</b>-<b>22</b></figref>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>23</b></figref>, the accessory <b>2400</b> is a combined hanger <b>2401</b> and rectangular track insertion head <b>2402</b>. The rectangular track insertion head <b>2402</b> can be inserted into a track with the major axis of the rectangular track insertion head <b>2402</b> parallel to the major axis of the track. The accessory <b>2400</b> includes one or more threads as previously described.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>25</b></figref>, illustrated therein is another explanatory accessory <b>2500</b> configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>25</b></figref>, the accessory <b>2400</b> is an end cap for a track (<b>106</b>). In one or more embodiments, the end cap can be attached to a track (<b>106</b>), as shown above in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>1</b>-<b>4</b> and <b>11</b></figref>.

In this illustrative embodiment, the end cap includes a wall abutment <b>2501</b> and an extension <b>2502</b> that situates around the exterior of an end of the track (<b>106</b>). Situated within an interior of the extension <b>2502</b>, along a center axis of the extension <b>2502</b>, is a track insertion key <b>2503</b>. In this illustrative embodiment, the track insertion key <b>2503</b> includes an upper track insertion key <b>2504</b> and a lower track insertion key <b>2505</b>. In this embodiment, the lower track insertion key <b>2505</b> is a mirror image of the upper track insertion key <b>2504</b>. This allows the accessory <b>2500</b> to be ambidextrous in that it can insert into the track (<b>106</b>) of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref> with either minor surface of the accessory <b>2500</b> situated on the top of the track (<b>106</b>). Thus, where the track (<b>106</b>) comprising one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>), as shown above in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>4</b></figref>, the end cap can include a track insertion key <b>2505</b> that inserts into the one or more complementary barbs (<b>405</b>) regardless of whether the end cap is right side up or upside down.

In this illustrative embodiment, the wall abutment <b>2501</b> includes a quadrilateral attachment support that includes two apertures <b>2506</b> (with another being a mirror image of aperture <b>2506</b> similar to apertures <b>1153</b>,<b>1154</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>11</b></figref>). Screws can be inserted through the apertures <b>2506</b> to attach the quadrilateral attachment support to a wall. The track (<b>106</b>) can then be inserted into the extension <b>2502</b> around the track insertion key <b>2503</b> to securely adhere the track (<b>106</b>).

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>26</b></figref>, illustrated therein is one explanatory assembled system <b>2600</b> in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>26</b></figref>, the first base member portion <b>1508</b> is positioned such that its first half rail clamp <b>1512</b> situates about a rail <b>2207</b>. The second base member portion <b>1509</b> is positioned such that its second half rail clamp <b>1513</b> situates about the rail <b>2207</b>. The head (<b>1605</b>) of the hanger <b>1501</b> is inserted into the head receiver formed by the first half head receiver (<b>2015</b>) extending distally from the bottom of the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second half head receiver (<b>2016</b>) extending distally from the bottom of the second base member portion <b>1509</b> until its upper surface abuts the rail <b>2207</b>.

The coupler <b>1511</b> is threaded onto the threads defined by the exterior surfaces (<b>2019</b>,<b>2020</b>) of the first half head receiver (<b>2015</b>) and the second half head receiver (<b>2016</b>) to couple the first base member portion <b>1508</b> and the second base member portion <b>1509</b> together. The key <b>1503</b> is attached to the distal end (<b>1601</b>) of the hook <b>1504</b>. The track <b>106</b> is attached to the key <b>1503</b>.

One or more hangers <b>1186</b> are then placed upon the track <b>106</b>. The one or more hangers <b>1186</b> can be coupled to a curtain or other substrate, and can optionally include an aperture <b>1185</b> in its top corner.

Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that it can be tedious to place each hanger <b>1186</b> upon the track <b>106</b>, one by one, when there are many hangers <b>1186</b>. To make this process easier, embodiments of the disclosure include an optional tool that allows a plurality of hangers <b>1186</b> to be quickly and easily placed upon the track <b>106</b>. Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>27</b>-<b>28</b></figref>, illustrated therein is one such tool <b>2700</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>27</b></figref> shows a rear perspective view of the tool <b>2700</b>, while <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>28</b></figref> shows a front perspective view of the tool <b>2700</b>.

The tool <b>2700</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>27</b>-<b>28</b></figref> includes a track grabber <b>2701</b> that extends along a major axis of the tool <b>2700</b>. In one or more embodiments, the track grabber <b>2701</b> is configured as a half U-shape with an arch <b>2702</b> and a major face <b>2703</b> extending distally downward from the arch <b>2702</b> such that the end of the tool <b>2700</b> looks like a half-U with one upright missing.

In one or more embodiments, a hanger stop <b>2704</b> is situated at a first end of the track grabber <b>2701</b>, while the other end of the track grabber <b>2701</b> is open, and includes no stop. The inclusion of the hanger stop <b>2074</b> provides a mechanical wall against which hangers will not slide off the track grabber <b>2701</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the diameter of the arch <b>2702</b> of the track grabber <b>2701</b> gets larger at a resistance point <b>2705</b> that is located about seventy-five percent of the way down the length of the track grabber <b>2701</b> from the hanger stop <b>2704</b>. The resistance point <b>2705</b> helps to retain hangers between the hanger stop <b>2704</b> and the resistance point <b>2705</b> until the arch <b>2702</b> of the track grabber <b>2701</b> is placed atop a track <b>106</b> and the tool <b>2700</b> is tipped toward the open end, i.e., the end of the track grabber <b>2701</b> opposite the hanger stop <b>2704</b>, to a sufficient angle that any hangers situated along the track grabber <b>2701</b> slide over the resistance point <b>2705</b>, off the track grabber <b>2701</b>, and onto the track <b>106</b>.

The tool <b>2700</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>27</b>-<b>28</b></figref> facilitates quick and easy mounting of hangers on a track <b>106</b> by allowing many hangers to be “scooped up” by the track grabber <b>2701</b> and placed between the hanger stop <b>2704</b> and the resistance point <b>2705</b>. Thereafter, the tool <b>2700</b> can be placed such that the track grabber <b>2701</b> sits atop the track <b>106</b>. The tool <b>2700</b> can be tipped, with the hanger stop <b>2704</b> situated above the open end of the track grabber <b>2701</b> such that the hanger stop <b>2704</b> is a sufficient distance away from the track <b>106</b> to allow gravity to cause the hangers to pass over the resistance point <b>2705</b> in one or more embodiments. In other embodiments, the hangers can be manually slid off the track grabber <b>2701</b> onto the track <b>106</b> without tipping. For example, where the hangers are attached to a curtain, a person can place the track grabber <b>2701</b> atop the track <b>106</b> and simply pull the curtain away from the hanger stop <b>2704</b> to slide the hangers over the resistance point <b>2705</b> and onto the track <b>106</b>.

In one or more embodiments, the tool <b>2700</b> includes goal post arms <b>2706</b>,<b>2707</b> that can be attached to a shaft or pole so that the tool <b>2700</b> can be elevated to reach a track. In one or more embodiments, an internal snap protrusion can couple one or more apertures <b>2708</b> to one or more apertures of the shaft or pole.

Thus, as shown and described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>27</b>-<b>28</b></figref>, in one or more embodiments a track hanger configured in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure includes a tool <b>2700</b>. In one or more embodiments, the tool <b>2700</b> comprises a track grabber <b>2701</b>. In one or more embodiments, the track grabber <b>2701</b> is situated atop the track <b>106</b>. In one or more embodiments, the track grabber <b>2701</b> defines a half-U shape comprising an arch <b>2702</b> and a flat side extending distally from the arch <b>2702</b>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. <b>27</b>-<b>28</b></figref>, the flat side is shown as a major face <b>2703</b> of the track grabber <b>2701</b>. In one or more embodiments, a diameter of the arch <b>2702</b> is wider at a resistance point <b>2705</b> of the track grabber <b>2701</b> than it is at other portions of the track grabber <b>2701</b> to retain hangers placed along the track grabber <b>2701</b> between the resistance point <b>2705</b> and the hanger stop <b>2704</b> until removal of the hangers from the tool <b>2700</b> is desired.

Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. <b>29</b></figref>, illustrated therein are various embodiments of the disclosure. At <b>2901</b>, a track hanger comprises a first base member portion. At <b>2901</b>, the first base member portion comprises a first half rail clamp. At <b>2901</b>, the first base member defines a first half head-receiving aperture. At <b>2901</b>, the track hanger comprises a second base member portion coupled to the first base member portion. At <b>2901</b>, the second base member portion comprises a second half rail clamp and defining a second half head-receiving aperture.

At <b>2901</b>, the track hanger comprises a hanger. At <b>2901</b>, the hanger comprises an extension situated between a hook and a head. At <b>2901</b>, the head is situated within the head-receiving aperture with an upper surface of the head exposed to the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp.

At <b>2901</b>, the track hanger comprises a coupler. At <b>2901</b>, the coupler couples the first base member portion to the second base member portion. At <b>2901</b>, threading the coupler onto the first base member portion and the second base member portion moves the head of the hanger toward the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp.

At <b>2902</b>, the track hanger of <b>2901</b> further comprises a rail situated between the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp. At <b>2903</b>, the coupler of <b>2902</b> causes the head of the hanger to clamp onto the rail situated between the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp.

At <b>2904</b>, the track hanger of <b>2901</b> further comprises a head receiver extending distally from the head-receiving aperture. At <b>2905</b>, the both the head receiver and the head of <b>2904</b> are cylindrical. At <b>2905</b>, the head-receiving aperture is circular.

At <b>2906</b>, an exterior surface of the head receiver of <b>2905</b> defines one or more threads. At <b>2907</b>, the track hanger of <b>2906</b> further comprises a key that is detachable from the hook. At <b>2908</b>, the key of <b>2907</b> comprises a first major surface and a second major surface. At <b>2908</b>, the first major surface defines one or more barbs.

At <b>2909</b>, the first base member portion of <b>2908</b> comprises one or more bosses. At <b>2909</b>, the second base member portion of <b>2908</b> comprises one or more boss receivers. At <b>2910</b>, the one or more bosses of <b>2909</b> insert into the one or more boss receivers when the first base member portion and the second base member portion abut.

At <b>2911</b>, the first base member portion of <b>2907</b> is separable from the second base member portion along a medial major axis. At <b>2912</b>, the key of <b>2907</b> comprises a distal end receiver. At <b>2912</b>, the hook comprises a distal end inserted into the distal end receiver.

At <b>2913</b>, the distal end receiver of <b>2912</b> defines at least one engagement recess. At <b>2913</b>, the distal end comprises at least one engagement protrusion. At <b>2913</b>, the at least one engagement protrusion projects from the distal end and engages the engagement recess when the distal end is inserted into the distal end receiver to retain the key to the distal end.

At <b>2914</b>, the track hanger of <b>2901</b> further comprises a tool. At <b>2914</b>, the tool comprises a track grabber situated atop the track. At <b>2914</b>, the track grabber defines a half-U shape comprising an arch and a major face. At <b>2915</b>, the diameter of the arch of <b>2914</b> is wider at a resistance point of the track grabber than at other portions of the track grabber.

At <b>2916</b>, a track hanger comprises a hook, a head, and an extension. At <b>2916</b>, the extension is disposed between the head and the hook.

At <b>2916</b>, the track hanger comprises a base member. At <b>2916</b>, the base member comprises a first half rail clamp and a second half rail clamp. At <b>2916</b>, the base member comprises a head receiver defining a head-receiving aperture. At <b>2916</b>, the head-receiving aperture exposes the head to the first half rail clamp and the second half rail claim when the head is inserted into the head-receiving aperture.

At <b>2916</b>, the track hanger comprises a key. At <b>2916</b>, the key is selectively attachable to the hook. At <b>2916</b>, the track hanger comprises a coupler. At <b>2916</b>, the head is insertable into the head receiver. At <b>2916</b>, the coupler is operable to engage an exterior surface of the head receiver to move the head through the head-receiving aperture toward the first half rail clamp and the second half rail clamp.

At <b>2917</b>, the key of <b>2916</b> comprises a first major surface and a second major surface. AT <b>2917</b>, the first major surface defines one or more barbs.

At <b>2918</b>, the track hanger of <b>2917</b> further comprises a track. At <b>2918</b>, the one or more barbs facilitate a one-way penetration of the key into the track.

At <b>2919</b>, the track hanger of <b>2918</b> further comprises an end cap. At <b>2919</b>, the end cap is attached to the track. At <b>2919</b>, the end cap comprises a wall abutment and an extension that situates around an exterior end of the track. At <b>2919</b>, the track comprises one or more complementary barbs. At <b>2919</b>, the end cap further comprises a track insertion key inserted into the one or more complementary barbs. At <b>2920</b>, the track hanger of <b>2919</b> further comprises comprising one or more hangers hanging from the track.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Thus, while preferred embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described, it is clear that the disclosure is not so limited. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the following claims. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present disclosure. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims.